When it comes to heart-related emergencies, two terms are often confused: heart failure and heart attack. While both are serious cardiovascular conditions, they differ in causes, symptoms, and treatments. At Horizon Hospital, Naupada, we believe awareness is the first step toward prevention and timely care.
In this blog, we’ll break down the difference between heart failure and heart attack, clear up common misconceptions, and help you understand when to seek urgent care.
A heart attack, medically known as myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked. This blockage—usually caused by a blood clot or plaque buildup—prevents oxygen from reaching the heart muscle, causing damage or death to the tissue.
Common Causes:
- Coronary artery disease
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
Symptoms of a Heart Attack:
- Sudden chest pain or tightness
- Pain radiating to the jaw, left arm, neck, or back
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweats
- Nausea or dizziness
- Fatigue
A heart attack is a sudden event, and immediate medical attention is crucial. Delay in treatment can lead to irreversible damage or death.
What is Heart Failure?
Heart failure is a chronic condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively. It doesn’t mean the heart has stopped working—it means it’s weakened or stiffened, causing insufficient blood supply to meet the body’s needs.
Common Causes:
- Previous heart attacks
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Heart valve disease
- Cardiomyopathy
- Diabetes
- Obesity
Symptoms of Heart Failure:
- Persistent shortness of breath (especially during exertion or lying down)
- Swelling in legs, ankles, or abdomen
- Fatigue and weakness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Frequent urination at night
- Cough or wheezing with white or pink-tinged mucus
Heart failure develops over time, and while it’s not curable, it can be managed effectively with the right medical care, lifestyle changes, and medications.
Can a Heart Attack Cause Heart Failure?
Yes. In fact, a heart attack can be one of the leading causes of heart failure. When heart tissue is damaged due to a heart attack, it can reduce the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently, leading to heart failure over time.
That’s why early detection and prompt treatment of heart attacks can help prevent or delay the onset of heart failure.
How Horizon Hospital, Naupada Can Help
At Horizon Hospital, Naupada, our expert cardiology team offers advanced diagnosis, emergency cardiac care, and long-term heart failure management.
🔹 For a heart attack:
- 24×7 emergency response
- Advanced cardiac imaging (ECG, Echo, Angiography)
- On-site Cath Lab for immediate angioplasty and stenting
🔹 For heart failure:
- Personalised medication plans
- Diet and lifestyle counselling
- Device-based therapy (like pacemakers or ICDs)
- Long-term monitoring and cardiac rehab
Conclusion
While both heart attack and heart failure affect the heart, they are very different in how they occur, how they present, and how they are treated. A heart attack is a medical emergency that needs immediate intervention, while heart failure is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management.
